Afternoon Picnic by a Waterfall
This half-day experience involves a scenic drive through undulating tea estates to Fairlawn Falls, a gorgeous, off-the-beaten-track waterfall on the Maskeliya Oya, for a relaxing afternoon and picturesque picnic. The waterfall is small, and cascades around four metres down a rock face creating several pools in the process which are perfect for taking a dip and cooling off.
The vegetation leading to the waterfall is lush, and the river cuts a deep crevice down the hill surrounded by tea bushes and forest. Houses scatter the hillside, and the estate path winds up into the misty reaches of the mountain above. You’ll be dropped near the waterfall, and after being escorted on a short walk downhill by your butler, you’ll come to a flat clearing on the riverbank where you can relax, dip your feet in the water, and enjoy a picnic whilst taking in the wonderful setting around you.
Fairlawn Falls is one of the more secluded waterfalls in the area, and on most days, you will have the place to yourself. The drive to the waterfall takes around 1 hour and, on the way, you’ll pass a few Hindu kovils (temples). Please let your butler know if you’d like to stop off at one of these kovils and explore its characteristically colourful interior. Hindu shrines are very photographic, and this one sits on the side of a valley with tea bushes all around. You will need to be dressed appropriately if you wish to visit (shoulders and legs covered).
